Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry suspended the state's closed-party primaries for U.S. House races, originally set for May 16 and June 27, after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down Louisiana's congressional map. [1]
The court ruled 6-3 on April 29 that the map was an unconstitutional racial gerrymander, objecting to the creation of a second majority-Black district based on race. [1] Landry said he declared an "electoral emergency" and used that authority to halt or delay the elections. [1] He also said, "Allowing elections to proceed under an unconstitutional map would undermine the integrity of our system and violate the rights of our voters." [1]
The suspension does not affect other races or ballot measures, which will continue as planned. [1] Early voting for the House contests was due to start on Saturday, May 2, and absentee ballots had already been mailed to overseas voters before the order took effect. [1]
Louisiana currently has 2 majority-Black districts, both represented by Black Democrats, Rep. Cleo Fields and Rep. Troy Carter. [1] The new ruling could reduce the number of such districts in the state. [1]
Landry and Attorney General Liz Murrill are working with the Legislature and Secretary of State on a new congressional map and a path forward. [1] No date has been set for rescheduled House elections. [1]